Penn State spring football position primer: Linebackers will provide experience to Nittany Lions' defense

It's no surprise that Penn State will again bring plenty of talent to the table from the linebacker position this season. It's also no surprise that Ron Vanderlinden's unit will be one of the deepest, most dynamic positions the Nittany Lions have.

But the sky isn't just the limit for the starters, but the reserves, too. Khari Fortt, who has nursed a knee sprain, is currently the third linebacker as Mauti remains out of spring practice. Fortt has shown signs of explosiveness in limited playing time, racking up 13 tackles, 6.5 for loss, and 2.5 sacks last season.

Redshirt sophomore Mike Hull also figures to see plenty of playing time. Hull chipped in with 13 tackles, 1.5 which went for loss, last season and has made strides this spring.

Running back Silas Redd called Hull was the strongest player on the team in their first strength test, and fellow linebacker Hodges said he likes the way Hull plays the game. Mauti may have made the most telling statement, though, saying "he's going to be a guy we're going to count on to play that two-deep with us."

And how about the newcomer? Highly touted 2012 recruit Nyeem Wartman is ranked in the low-30s by nearly all recruiting services, after recording more than 300 tackles as a high school outside linebacker. He doesn't figure to jump over Fortt, Hull, or returners Mike Yancich and Ben Kline right away, but should groom nicely under the leadership of Mauti and Hodges.

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